6.16.22 PLCO by Plant City Observer

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VOLUME 6, NO. 201

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THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

NATE KILTON: NEW PLANT CITY MAYOR KILTON WAS ANNOUNCED AS NEW MAYOR AND JASON JONES NOW OFFICIAL COMMISSIONER BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

It was an unprecedented city commission meeting as Nate Kilton was announced as the new Plant City mayor, on June 13. Kilton had the support of his fianceé and three children at his side as he was sworn into office.

“The way that I look at it is, this is a volunteer position,” Kilton said. “We are here to serve, and I just want you to know that I’m excited about this. I’m energized. I’m ready to take this on, but I also acknowledge that this is a team effort.” He also requested Michael Sparkman to stay and serve as his vice

mayor, which Sparkman accepted. It was also a momentous day for Jason Jones as he officially took office as a city commissioner.

Nate Family (Courtesy of Yvonne Fry)

CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

New Plant City Mayor Nate Kilton (middle) is shown support by his son Levi; daughter Adeline; fiancee Kathleen Hall; and son Ethan, as he took the oath of office for his new seat, on June 13.

EVENT RESIDENTS MEET DISCUSSES TO DISCUSS POSSIBLE FUTURE OF 1914 HIGH SCHOOL Plant City locals gathered to discuss the preservation of landmark

LACK OF FOOD WORLDWIDE

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

The Tipsy Bookworm was packed with Plant City residents interested in the fate of the historic 1914 Plant City High School Community Center, on June 8. The three-story, brick building is currently owned by the City of Plant City and locals are concerned about

the uncertain prospect that the city will no longer preserve it. Located at 605 N. Collins St., the community center joins the ranks of other Plant City landmarks such as the Strawberry Festival fairgrounds, the train depot, and the Bing Rooming House Museum – all which define the town and make it unique from others. It was built in 1914 with a cost of $40,000 and was initially Plant City High School.

It operated as a high school up until 1955 and then became Tomlin Junior High School. In 1975, Hillsborough County and its school board, deeded the school to the City of Plant City.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

All are welcome for the Food Sovereignty/Food Justice program about global hunger and how to combat the issue in today’s society. It will be presented by William Schanbacher, PhD, professor of religious studies at the University of South Florida. He will also discuss why local farmers and businesses produce better quality food and why it’s an effective alternative. The first of three meetings will be held on June 16 at 5:30. It will take place at Bruton Memorial Library, 302 McLendon St., Plant City. The two other dates will be on July 25 and Aug. 17 at the same time and place. Around the world an estimated 811 million people do not have access to an adequate amount of food, and 48.9 million people are facing emergency levels of hunger, according to the World Food Programme. Parts of Yemen, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Nigeria are either in a famine or on the verge.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

NEWS BRIEFS

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

Now accepting new patients!

Plant City’s Johni Broome to host second annual basketball camp

Plant City Fire Rescue to conduct Landing Zone Training this week

Plant City native Johni Broome, set to start his junior season at Auburn University after two seasons at Morehead State University, will be holding his second annual basketball camp this summer on July 23rd and July 24th at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center, 302 S. Maryland Ave. Doors will open at 9 a.m. and the camp will run from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on both days, free for all kids to attend at no cost. You can sign up for the camp at https:// form.jotform.com/211881154953055 or by scanning the QR code below.

Plant City Fire Rescue will be conducting Landing Zone Training at Plant City Stadium June 17 and July 1 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Residents can expect to see helicopters flying in and out of the area during the trainings and Plant City Fire Rescue wants individuals to note that there is no emergency or anything to be concerned about if they see helicopters around Plant City Stadium during these periods.

To make an appointment, please call:

• 863.284.5000 for Primary Care or Pediatrics

JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY

• 863.284.5115 for Rheumatology

Plant City High School

ALEXANDER STREET

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511 West Alexander St

Plant City July 4th Celebration returning to Plant City Stadium Publix

ALEXANDER STREET

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Our Doctors: Humam Alabsi, MD Pediatrics

863.284.5000

Sandra Rodriguez Fernandez, MD Internal Med. Primary Care

863.284.5000

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Adriana Moncayo, MD

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Lane closures continue in Plant City SR 60 (Brandon Boulevard) from Valrico Road to Turkey Creek Road: Day lane closures: Monday, June 13 through Friday, June 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Night lane closures: Sunday, June 12 through Thursday, June 16 from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. SR 574 (Reynolds Street) from Turkey Creek Road to Alexander Street: Lane closures: Monday, June 13 through Friday, June 17 from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

We welcome the opportunity to become the medical home for your entire family at our new Plant City location, offering Primary Care, Pediatrics and Rheumatology.

JAMES L REDMAN PARKWAY

Coordinated by the Plant City Recreation & Parks Department and the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce, the skies above Plant City will once again fill with fireworks this July 4th. The celebration will take place on Monday, July 4 at Plant City Stadium, 1810 E. Park Rd. Parking lots will open at 5:30 p.m. and the gates will open at 6 p.m., with several activities available on the stadiums turf. Family-friendly activities offered will include inflatables, face painting, Corn Hole, tug-owar and more, in addition to stadium concession stands and various venders inside the stadium and along the perimeter of the field. At 9:15 p.m., a spectacular 20-minute Zambelli fireworks display will begin. Admission to the event is free with a parking cost of $5 per car. As it is a cash event, all are advised to bring cash for parking and vendors as no ATMs are available on-site. Plant City’s July 4th Celebration is a family-oriented event, so please abide by Stadium and Parking Lot event policy. No alcohol is permitted on the property, per city ordinance, and bags and backpacks will be subject to search at the stadium entrance. No coolers nor any glass or open containers of any beverage are permitted into the stadium. Should weather force the event to be postponed, the rain out date will be Tuesday, July 5 with gates opening at 8 p.m. and entertainment will be limited to the fireworks display only. Sponsorship opportunities are still available! If interested or in need of more information, please email Special Events Coordinator Ivanna Ibarra at iyibarra@ plantcitygov.com or contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 813-659-4255.

Plant City July 4th Celebration

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

PLANT CITY LOCALS URGE

RESTORATION OF HISTORIC BUILDING

Residents held a town hall to preserve landmark.

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

“When the city took ownership in 1975, it was a community project,” said Jay Hollenkamp. “There was not supposed to be a single tax dollar spent on this school. The community had to figure out what they wanted to do with it. The community was going to raise the money. The community was going to figure out what we wanted. Ultimately, what we’re doing today, is just a continuation of that process.” However, over the years, taxpayers have had to fund the upkeep of the building. The community center is currently being occupied by the East Hillsborough Historical Society (EHHS), which was established in 1974 with the mission of preserving Plant City’s history. When the county deeded the building to the city, the city in turn deeded it to the EHHS. Shelby Bender is currently the president of the EHHS. “They single-handedly kept that building alive when it otherwise would have been torn down 35 years ago,” said Ed Verner, the former two-term president of the EHHS. “Anybody who’s been around for 40 years or more, they love the building, and they’d love to see it saved. It’s iconic. It’s arguably the No. 1 poster child of historic buildings in proximity to downtown.” No official organization put on the town hall discussion, but the word got around through social media and those in attendance were not shy in being vocal. “The question as a community is: do we care about this building so much, that we want to put in the effort to get there?” Hollenkamp asked. “Do we see what the end result could be?” By the entryway, was a jar where residents could place notes with suggestions on what should be done with the building.

Ken Forteny is a professional painter and said that he’s able and willing to provide his services to help renovate the building. He and his wife have a love for old buildings, which is what makes the former high school standout to them. They purchased their 1936 home for its vintage feel as opposed to a more modernized look. He said that the community center should not have one but several multipurpose uses. When the Hillsborough County School Board released the community center to the city, it did so under the condition that it would operate only for public use. If used for any other purpose, it would be given back to the school board. Multiple functions have taken place at the building, creating new memories with live performances being held in the auditorium. It’s been used for classes, meetings, reunions, and wedding receptions, among other events. In 1922, the Woman’s Club of Plant City was officially organized in the auditorium, and in 1981, the school was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The EHHS has also incorporated the Pioneer Museums and History & Genealogy Archives, consisting of historical documents, artifacts, photos, and artwork. Past strawberry queen gowns and antique farm equipment are several things that are on display for spectators. Erin Hollenkamp is also enticed by the building’s design. “The architecture is just beautiful,” she said. “You don’t see buildings like that anymore. If the building was gone and they built something else in its place again, it just wouldn’t be the same contributing value to the city.” There are those like Plant City native, Angie Klein who are “pro-preserve,” how-

ever aren’t quite sure what the community center should become. She also noted that the town hall discussion was effective in bringing the locals together for a common cause. Although, the discussions will be more well-rounded if more than just the everyday citizens show up, Klein said. “I think it was a great first step, but we plan to have more meetings,” she said. “This is a community event, and we want the city to be a big part of it. Obviously from the seating, we want the city to see we care, and we want them to be a big part of it and the discussion.” The city commission on a whole was not present, nor the city attorney or city manager. There has been concern that city officials have been making plans to take down the building without hearing from the public. However, Plant City City Manager Bill McDaniel has pushed back stating that the city government has not given any indication that the community center will be demolished. “We have no plans to do anything to the building,” he said. “If there was a plan to tear down that building, if there was any concrete action in that direction, it would be very transparent because that’s a very expensive project, and that would have to go before the commission.” In fact, McDaniel said that he and the EHHS have been strategizing on ways to improve the former high school. He had done an assessment of the building to find out what condition it was in and concluded that it was in much need of repair. Over the years, it has had many renovations done including brand new roofing. In the late 1990s, the state issued a grant that funded the air conditioning of

the auditorium and ground floor as well as an elevator that was installed in 2000. According to an engineering report, it will cost roughly $8.8 million to both stabilize the structure and upgrade it for modern use, Hollenkamp said. During the town hall, several examples of historic building that were successfully renovated and repurposed were mentioned. One was the Spring Garden School that was built in 1927, in Philadelphia. It was later turned into housing for seniors and homeless veterans, and also offers youth mentorship programs. Another is the Kennedy Elementary School, established in 1915, in Portland, Oregon. It eventually became a hotel with a restaurant, several bars, a movie theater, soaking pool, and brewery. Florida State Senator Danny Burgess, who represents Plant City, was also present. He explained how historic buildings in his native Zephyrhills were restored, such as the former home of civil war veteran Capt. H.B. Jeffries, it was used to house Main Street Zephyrhills and later a café. “I went out and talked to so many people in so many areas in the community as possible,” Jay said. “This is the only issue I’ve ever found where there is almost broad agreement. Everybody wants to save this building. Where it goes from here, we don’t know.” Although it is wanted by many locals, a second town-hall forum has not been officially announced as of yet.

COPS CORNER

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

PLANT CITY

This week on Cops Corner: Plant City

Observer

Police investigate a smashed window, a burglarized construction site and multiple outstanding warrants. istock

Publisher / Karen Berry KBerry@PlantCityObserver.com Managing Editor / Sarah Holt SHolt@PlantCityObserver.com Sports Writer / Taylor Jenkins tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com Staff Writer / Brian Fernandes bfernandes@plantcityobserver.com

JUNE 3 RING THE BELL 1200 block of Nancy Terrace Simple battery/warrant arrest: An officer, along with additional units, responded to a residence at the listed location in reference to a fight in progress. One individual was subsequently arrested for an outstanding warrant and battery and transported to Orient Road Jail.

JUNE 4 CLEAN PLATE 200 block of W. Alexander St. Stolen tag: An officer met with the victim at the listed location who stated that her Florida tag was taken from her vehicle. GOTCHA 2600 block of James L. Redman Pkwy. Retail theft: An officer met with a loss prevention officer at a

business at the listed location reference to a theft. One individual was subsequently arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail reference booking. SURPRISE FINDING 2800 block of James L. Redman Pkwy. Drug arrest: An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle with an expired tag. Ultimately, one individual was arrested for possession of paraphernalia and trafficking and was transported to Orient Road Jail.

JUNE 5 SMASH AND DASH 2100 block of W. Reynolds St. Vehicle burglary: Officers responded to a business at the listed location and met with the victim who reported that the rear passenger window of his truck was smashed and that his bag, containing $50 in cash, was stolen from the passenger floorboard.

NIGHT LIGHT Jim Johnson Rd. / E. Alexander St. Warrant arrest: An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle due to a broken rear tail light. Contact was made with the driver and an FCIC/NCIC check returned to show that the individual had two outstanding warrants out of Levy and Hillsborough Counties. The individual was then arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail without incident.

JUNE 7

Advertising Graphic Designer / Juan Alvarez

PIPING HOT

Circulation/ Office Manager / Linda Lancaster LLancaster@PlantCityObserver.com

JUNE 6

3300 block of S. Frontage Rd. Theft: An officer responded to a business at the listed location and met with the superintendent who stated that between Friday, June 3 and Monday, June 6, an unknown individual entered the construction site and removed 35 stainless steel gas pipes valued at $15,000. Additionally, the individual also entered an unlocked shed that contained several power tools valued at $2,500.

WIRE YOU DOING THIS

JUNE 8

3900 block of Capri Coast Dr. Burglary: An officer responded to an under-construction home at the listed location and met with the complainant who advised that between Friday, June 3 and Monday, June 6, an unknown individual entered the home and cut and removed $6,000 worth of copper wire.

MAD DASHER 1400 block of Plantation Cir. DUI: An officer responded to a possible road rage incident involving a possible crash. An individual at the scene was then placed under arrest for DUI and transported to Orient Road Jail.

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The Plant City Observer is published once weekly, on Thursdays. The Plant City Observer also can be found in many commercial locations throughout Plant City and at our office, 110 E. Reynolds St., Suite 100B. If you wish to discontinue home delivery or if you wish to suspend home delivery temporarily, call Linda Lancaster at 704-6850.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

NATE KILTON SELECTED AS PLANT CITY MAYOR NATE KILTON NAMED NEW MAYOR, JASON JONES JOINS COMMISSION BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

Jones is a former member of the Plant City Planning Board, and he too had his family by his side as he took the oath of office. “Before I decided to file for this seat, there’s two things that I did: one is I prayed and then I met with my family,” he said. “My family was very supportive and without them, I wouldn’t be able to volunteer or serve in my community the way I have over the years.” TRAFFIC LIGHT INSTALLATION

Plans are underway to put up a new traffic signal at the intersection of Alexander Street and Mud Lake Road. Plant City City Manager Bill McDaniel was present at the meeting to report on the proposed installation. “We have been working with FDOT on a number of projects, improvements and strategies around the community, and one of the things we’ve been working on is trying to improve the traffic flow and safety on Alexander Street,” he said. “Mud Lake and Alexander is the scene of numerous crashes over the years, and any of us that drive through that area, know we have a problem with traffic staging across that very large, flying, divided highway. The signal will remedy that.” FDOT will construct the new signal, however the funding will

be a joint effort between the city and FDOT, through the Locally Funded Agreement (LFA). The city will provide $225,000 from its transportation impact fees, toward the $500,000 project. What’s more, McDaniel believes that this signal will create a gap of the traffic flow between the intersection of Mud Lake Road and Alexander Street to the existing lights at Plant City High School. One example that was mentioned was the signals installed at Park Road and the Interstate 4 interchanges, which have successfully reduced accidents. “I believe it’s going to eliminate the issues that’s been going on and the close calls that we’ve had over the past years,” said City Commissioner Bill Dodson. “I look forward to see it put in place.” Finalizing agreements with the city and FDOT was approved by the commission with a vote of 5-0. FIRST TIME HOME BUYER PROGRAM

As of June 1, an application process has been put in place for community heroes who are firsttime home buyers, that will offer benefits. Gov. Ron DeSantis introduced the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program that can help our heroes receive up to $25,000 when purchasing a home for the first time.

Law enforcement, firefighters, teachers, and healthcare workers all constitute as community heroes and can apply for the program – which Florida lawmakers put $100 million toward, from the 2022-2023 budget. City Commissioner Mary Mathis also reported that there is currently $365 million for affordable housing and she is making efforts to see that Plant City gets its fair share. Applications are found at www. FloridaHousing.org/Programs/ Homebuyer-Overview-Page/ HometownHeroes. CITY NOISE ORDINANCE

Plant City Police Chief James Bradford took to the podium to address the dilemma of disruptive noise taking place within the community. “One of the continuing themes throughout has been the issue of complaints of excessive noise,” he said. “That’s loud parties, boom boxes, etc., all taking away the quality of life in their neighborhoods. We took these concerns to heart, accessed the way we the police department, handle noise complaints, and found there are ways we could request a noise ordinance be amended to address these concerns.” Bradford requested before the commission that the noise ordinance also pertain to construction or repair of buildings, excavation of streets and highways

Jason Family (Courtesy of Yvonne Fry) (From left to right) Children Casey, Noah, Mia and wife Layla, support Jason Jones at his first official day as a Plant City city commissioner.

during late evening hours and early morning hours. The proposed amended noise ordinance would allow these projects to be completed properly in times restricted by the current ordinance and also allow the police department to better enforce noise violations with use of civil citations. It removes the exemption of motor vehicles on the right-ofway. It also exempts Pixie Rock and other events specifically designated as exempt by the city commission.

The Florida Strawberry Festival would also be exempt. First violation for disruptive noise will result in a written warning. Repeat violations after officers explain the intensity of the noise levels will result in law enforcement using already existing way to enforce violations through civil citations, which will be handled by the clerk’s office. The amendment was approved by the commission with a vote of 5-0.

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

CHAMBER LUNCHEON ON CHILD EDUCATION AND ECONOMY

SENIOR DIRECTOR ANDREW WIGGINS DISCUSSES ISSUES ON STATE LEVEL

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

Third grade reading and poverty were two topics that were discussed by Andrew Wiggins at the recent Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce luncheon, held on June 9. He is the senior director for Political Affairs and Coalitions Advocacy for the Florida Chamber of Commerce. This title requires him to manage the Florida Chamber’s political campaign activity, build coalitions and work with local Chamber of Commerce throughout Florida. At the TECO Expo Hall, he spoke about where Florida stands economically. FLORIDA STATE ECONOMY AND EMPLOYMENT

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

“Right now, if Florida was its own country, it would have the 15th largest economy in the world,” Wiggins said. “Our goal is to move us to the 10th. Prior to the pandemic, we were 17th.” He attributes this to opening up businesses statewide in a timely manner during the pandemic as well as having the right policies in place. In Florida, there are approximately 515,000 job openings, but only 321,000 people actively seeking jobs. “Finding workers out there right now, is extremely difficult at times,” he said. “There’s definitely a skills gap.” During the pandemic certain lines of work such as construction and trade continued to flourish while others like hospitality, education, and health services declined. “We know that the economy is moving and jobs are being created, but there’s some jobs that are trailing right now and there needs to be some work done to bring them back to pre-pandemic levels.” However, there are careers available that do not require a college diploma nor accruing $100,000 in debt, Wiggins added.

In Hillsborough County alone, there is an estimated 1.5 million residents and there is anticipation for that number to grow to 1.7 million residents at a minimum by 2030. Along with good weather, Florida needs to focus on having the right policies that are beneficial to its citizens in order to attract newcomers to the state with a population of over 22 million people, Wiggins said. The unemployment rate in the state is at 3% and declining, according to the Florida Scorecard, which shares metrics and statistical information on the state. This in turn shows a drop of those unemployed which stands at approximately 321,000 people. THIRD-GRADE READING LEVELS

The third-grade reading score is at 53% and is unfortunately showing a continuing downward trajectory. “Prior to third-grade, a child learns to read,” Wiggins said. “After third-grade, a child reads to learn. So if a child in thirdgrade can’t meet grade level, they’re already starting life at a disadvantage. “ He goes on to state that 90% of high school dropouts will not be able to read at a third-grade level. The Florida Chamber Foundation’s Florida Business Alliance for Early Learning Project has been making efforts to emphasize the importance of early learning and to help make business leaders aware of the mission. In many cases, the lack of proper education leads to poverty and unemployment. “There are kids in our zip codes who don’t have three meals a day because they’re struggling,” Wiggins said. “Summertime is probably the toughest time for them because they don’t have access to school lunches.” The Florida Chamber Foundation’s Florida Prosperity Project is also bringing business leaders together to provide equal job opportunities and end generational poverty.

LOCAL FOOD BANK DONATIONS TO AID MALNOURISHED SENIORS

UNITED FOOD BANK RECEIVES FUNDS TO COMBAT HUNGER AMONG SENIOR CITIZENS The United Food Bank of Plant City was awarded two generous donations from its partners Sweet Life Farms, Patterson Companies and the Mosaic Company on June 15. It was a collaboration among the organizations in order for the food bank to start its Feeding Our Legacy pilot program. This effort focuses on food-insecure seniors throughout Plant City, Seffner, Thonotosassa, Dover, Valrico, Brandon, Bealsville, Lithia, and parts of Riverview. Sweet Life Farms and Patterson Companies handed over a check for $53,250, and Mosaic handed over one for $50,000. First, the project will help provide food for 60 people in Bealsville, ranging from age 85 to 102. Mary Heysek, the executive director of the United Food Bank of Plant City, was there for the presenting of the checks. “What became very apparent to us at the food bank, is that our seniors need a lot of different types of things than the children,” she said. Last year, the food bank served approximately 12,000 people over age 70. About 150 seniors will benefit from the Feeding Our Legacy program, which includes an intake process with follow-up and tracking what specific needs should be addressed. “A lot of these seniors have health conditions that are unchecked,” Heysek said. “Their healthcare cost is about three to five times higher than younger adult healthcare costs, so there’s a lot of issues going on. We have a lot of the aging population right here that we can help and we’re in a position to do it thanks to Patterson and thanks to Mosaic.”

Patterson Companies was established in 1985 and hauls both perishable and non-perishable items and has had much success in that market. Mosaic was established in 2004 and has the ability to produce and deliver the crop nutrients phosphate and potash. Nikki Foster, the public relations manager for Mosaic encouraged Heysek to pinpoint what the needs are so those individuals could be referred to the appropriate community resources. “We’ve had a relationship with the food bank for quite a few years,” Foster said. “It preceded my start at Mosaic. We want to help the world grow the food it needs. It’s a perfect connection for us to partner with the United Food Bank.” She and Heysek have discussed diversity and inclusion programs that focus on unrepresented demographics. Foster wanted to pinpoint more so to individuals with needs, instead of focusing solely on groups of people. During the pandemic, the food bank began to deliver emergency food supplies to low-income multi-family communities. However, while providing services it was evident that there were senior citizens in dire need of food. This inspired the conception of Feeding Our Legacy. One in four seniors struggle with hunger and don’t always have access to nutritious food. READ MORE ONLINE

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PLANT CITY OBSERVER

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

PlantCityObserver.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

Parade Map This map is the route taken for the inaugural Juneteenth Parade at 11 a.m., on June 18. It will begin at the intersection of West Renfro Street and South Wheeler Street, and will end at Ronald L. Snowden Park on Waller Street. The three-day celebration will start on June 17 with a worship service at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, at 7 p.m. The following day will not only have the parade, but many vendors, food, games, and tournaments, as well as song and dance performances. On July 19, the celebration will close with a morning worship service and a Father’s Day luncheon. Several prominent figures in the Plant City community will also be recognized.

Courtesy of Maurice Wilson

PLANT CITY OBSERVER

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THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

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SPORTS

“QUIET ELEPHANT” TAKES ON BATTLE OF ATLANTA Plant City’s Clyde Newton Jr. headed to Atlanta this week for his first major karate tournament. TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Clyde Newton Jr., known as “Quiet Elephant” in the karate world, is heading to the Battle Of Atlanta this week to fight in his first major karate tournament. The Battle Of Atlanta is an annual international open karate tournament, with six different divisions for attendees to compete in. Newton is yet another branch in the karate tree started by local karate practitioner and instructor, Master Rudy Rogers. Rogers was raised in Plant City by Sadye Gibbs Martin, the first female mayor of Plant City and the first African-American elected mayor of a major city in the state of Florida. At 16, Rogers moved to Denver, Colorado where he attended Manual High School. After graduating, Rogers ran track and field at Northeastern Junior College, transferred to Arkansas State for a semester and ran track and field, finished his bachelor’s degree in health and physical education with a minor in biological science at Colorado State University and ultimately earned a master’s degree in therapeutic counseling from the University of Colorado. While he first began practicing martial arts in high school, he began to really take it seriously in 1976 after completing his service in the U.S. Navy. Rogers moved between Colorado and California for several years, continuing to practice and teach karate before relocating back to Plant City in 1999 and opening up his own open-air dojo at his house, teaching Goju Gung Fu karate through his Nisei Karate Federation. One of his most accomplished students, “Rhino” Mike Thomas, began training in 2015, earned his blackbelt in 2018, was inducted to the Sports Hall of Fame at Plant City’s Bing Rooming House Museum and later opened a dojo of his own in 2021. It was through Thomas that Newton first began training. A Brandon native, Newton has long served the Plant City community through his Newton Home Care, Inc., a company that provides independent living services, adult day training services, transportation and group home services for adults with disabilities. When he was young, Newton’s mother was a manager with Sun-

rise Community, another organization centered around working with adults with disabilities. As a single mother, she often brought Newton and his siblings along with her to work. This exposure, along with a growing up with a close family member who had an intellectual disability, grew into a love for making a difference in the lives of those who are affected. “When I was in high school I always told myself that once I graduate, if I can make a difference in someone’s life, that’s what I want to do,” Newton said. “A lot of people say that they want to make a difference in people’s lives, but I wanted to make a difference where it mattered and to me, that was this population because this is a population that a lot of people forget about, it’s a field that not a lot of people want to work in. That’s what pushed me to go this route. It was something that was instilled in me from the time I was a little boy all the way through the time when I had grown up.” Newton and his wife first began offering home care in 2015, going to the home of adults with disabilities to offer personal support while parents or caregivers worked. In 2016 they opened Newton Home Care, an adult day training center in Plant City, and in 2019 they opened South Himes Group Home in Tampa. “This population can go to school up to 22. Once they hit 22 they graduate out and a lot of times there’s nothing to do but sit at home,” Newton said. “Some end up getting jobs, some of them do well but some of them struggle because of their disability. Then that can conflict with the parents’ schedule so they find a place like us where they can come here to learn daily life skills, basic cooking skills, basic skills so that if something happens to their loved ones or the ones who are taking care of them, they’re able to survive somewhat independently. We also teach them basic money-counting skills, computer skills, reading skills, the basics that they will tend to use at home. Coming here it’s giving them a refresher so that it all stays fresh on their minds and if they want to get a job this helps because they’re getting those regular learning experiences.” Newton had some previous boxing experience and Thomas,

a long-time friend, began pushing him to practice karate. After some persuading, Newton agreed under the condition that Thomas teach him, and it didn’t take long for him to grow a love for the martial art. His training increased and before long, after Thomas had introduced Newton to Rogers, he was studying under two different instructors. “I was training with Master Rudy in the morning and then in the evening I was training with ‘Rhino’ Mike,” Newton said. “I just kept at it and the more I trained the better I would get and it’s just something that I fell in love with.” Soon after, Newton started additionally working out with another dojo closer to home in Brandon, practicing the UechiRyu discipline. Newton has now taken a spare room at his business and converted it to a dojo where he trains, now roughly a year-anda-half into his training with a white belt in Uechi-Ryu, preparing to test for his next belt, and a purple belt in Goju Gung Fu. As an underbelt – signifying a division of fighters below a brown belt – Newton has already fought in several tournaments throughout Clearwater, St. Pete in Orlando. His first tournament win came in Orlando as he faced 11 different opponents over a two-day span, but the Battle Of Atlanta will be his biggest challenge yet. “Clyde can be a beast,” Rogers said. “I’ll just sum it up like that. Clyde can be a beast, man. He’s already got a following.” Together, Thomas and Newton will headline the First Annual Strawberry Open Tournament, presented by Rogers’ Nisei Karate Federation, at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center on September 10.

Taylor Jenkins is the Sports Writer at the Plant City Observer. Email: tjenkins@ plantcityobserver.com.

PC RAIDERS BASKETBALL CAMP BACK FOR ITS EIGHTH YEAR. The annual summer basketball camp kicked off this week in Plant City. TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

The PC Raiders Hoops Basketball Camp, led by Plant City High School basketball head coach Billy Teeden, kicked off this week for its eighth year. The week-long camp allows young local basketball players a chance to have fun and grow within the game each summer, with several of Plant City’s varsity players and assistant coaches helping out to work with the kids.

“We’ve got most of our varsity guys, one of our assistant coaches, we’ve got the new varsity basketball coach for girls out here too, so we’ve got a good group,” Teeden said. The camp runs throughout the week at Plant City High School with kindergarten through fifth grade players working out in the mornings and 6th through 9th grade players working out in the afternoon. “Camp’s been going great,” Teeden said. “We’ve had great numbers, we have 30 kids in the

elementary age and 45 in the middle school age. Originally, when we first started the camp, it was mostly kids that I knew from the baseball field and things like that. Now it’s starting to grow where everybody is kind of excited about coming in, it’s spread through word of mouth, so the direction of it is fantastic. I feel like the city really enjoys the camp and a lot of these kids make some life-time memories here which I’m glad to be a part of.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

FEATURED FUTURE: COLIN SHULTZ

Featured Future is a summer series where the Observer will highlight local student athletes who are preparing to continue their athletic and educational careers at the college level, or those who have already begun that journey.

TAYLOR JENKINS SPORTS WRITER

Colin Shultz played baseball for four years at Plant City, now committed to Palm Beach State College where he will continue his playing career this upcoming year, but the Raiders’ baseball program was a part of his life long before he ever put on a Raiders uniform. “While it does look like just four years on paper, I’ve actually been around Plant City and the program for eight years because my older brother played there for four years under coach Mike [Fryrear],” Shultz said. “So I’ve really been around that program and school all of my life and I’ve always been welcomed on the field and everything. I used to practice with the team, probably when I was eight years old and could barely make the throw to first base from shortstop.” After winning a state championship with Plant City as a freshman, Shultz really

stepped into his role as a driving force for the team’s offense as a junior. In his third year, Shultz finished second on the team with a .360 batting average, second with 18 runs scored, second with seven doubles, third with 15 runs batted in and led the team with four home runs. As a senior, those numbers only improved with six home runs – trailing only fellow senior Jackson VanDerZee’s seven – and a team-leading .378 batting average, seven doubles, .452 on base percentage and a district-best 26 runs batted in. “It was definitely my approach,” Shultz said about what allowed him to be so successful at the plate this season. “My approach just got better. I started attacking more pitches in the zone and letting my strength do the work as opposed to just swinging out of my shoes every at bat.” And in an unexpected turn in the fall, an injury left Plant City with a hole at catcher. Previously a corner infielder, Shultz stepped up and offered to jump behind the plate.

“It may look OK but without the help of my pitching staff it wouldn’t have been nearly as nice,” Shultz said. “I’m very thankful to have had such a good pitching staff to throw to me, that made me look a lot better. We had a little bit of a hole through an accident and I said, you know, I can catch. So I got thrown into the position one game, I did OK, so I stuck with it and stayed there for the rest of the year.” With a couple other in-state and out-ofstate junior college offers, Shultz ultimately committed to Palm Beach State College in Lake Worth, where he’ll join the team along with a couple of friends from travel ball teams and Durant infielder Avery Cherry. “Palm Beach State just has a really good, winning history,” Shultz said. “They’ve never had a losing season, I love the coach, they’ve welcomed me with open arms, I love the area, it’s a nice beach town. I’ll be going there with a couple of friends that I know very well so I’m very excited… I’ve always been know for the big arm and the big power

at the plate, and they like power hitters, so I think that I can fit in very well with how they play.” After starting the season unranked, Palm Beach State entered the Top-20 and peaked at No. 18 in the 2022 NJCAA DII polls following wins over DI opponents in Miami Dade, Eastern Florida and Pensacola State College. Shultz added that despite just one year at catcher in high school, Palm Beach State gave him the option to stay at the position in college and he believes that’s the route he’ll take. “Everything that I did this year couldn’t have been done without Coach Mike and the pitchers that I had,” Shultz said.

Taylor Jenkins is the Sports Writer at the Plant City Observer. Email: tjenkins@ plantcityobserver.com.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

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YOUR AROUND TOWN SPONSOR AROUND TOWN

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We asked Plant CIty: What do you think of the new planters in downtown Plant City? “I think that was a bad idea. It’s too hard to drive on those little streets without putting plants in front of us. We don’t need that, I think it’s dangerous” - Kathleen Hauff “I’ve always thought there needs to be more flowers/trees on the medians and around the city. Anything to pretty our sweet town up.” - Stefanie Gulley Binnion “I like them but I’m concerned that they will die due to lack of care. Remember the various trees/shrubs planted in the Alexander Street median, then ignored as far as care was concerned!! Need to be checked daily for water and trash removed from beds!” - Karin Terry

“Pretty but taking up valuable parking spaces which PC is in desperate need of.” - Tracy Cole “Makes the streets look beautiful. More homey. I love to see the pops of color! Let’s get some nice trees up in there. I also tend to drive inside the lines so they don’t bother me.” - Ashley Saunders “Dumbest thing I’ve seen. They are too close to the travel lanes and vehicles are hitting them. Whoever thought of this idea gets an F.” - Rick Sullivan “I like them. It jazzes up the area.” Sarah Miller

is all about. W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community with personal, compassionate care since 1896. As your Dignity Memorial professionals,

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Fred L. Woodall, 91, of Lake Wales, Fla., born in Tallulah Falls, Ga. on June 30, 1930, entered into eternal rest on June 6, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

June 11, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

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Betty Johnson HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM

Wade Persall Wade Persall, 61, of Plant City, Fla., born on July 2, 1960, entered into eternal rest on May 5, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com

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Donnie Dean Tarrell

Donnie Dean Tarrell, 79, of Lakeland, Fla., born in Agar, S.D., entered into eternal rest on June 7, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

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Alva ‘Al’ Crosby, Jr.

Alva “Al” Crosby, Jr., 90, of Lakeland, Fla., born in Plant City on June 26, 1931, entered into eternal rest on

Betty Johnson, 70, of Plant City, Fla., born in Bonifay on April 5, 1952, entered into eternal rest on June 8, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

Carol Jean Rosier Johns

we’re dedicated to helping families create a

| THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022 PLANT OBSERVER unique andCITY meaningful memorial that truly celebrates the life it represents.

> 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline®

Donna J.

sympathy may be shared www.WellsMemorial.com Rittinger away on June 12, 2022. The atR Proudly supporting the Strawberry Festival. forPlant theCity Harris family. family will receive friends Carol Jean Rosier Johns, Jackson June 17, 2022 from 1 to 79, of Plant City, Fla., born 2 p.m. at Haught Funeral in Tampa on June 1, 19.43, Donna J. Rittinger entered into eternal rest on Home Chapel, 708 W. Dr. Jackson, 75, of WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Martin Luther King Jr. June 13, 2022. Plant City passed Expressions of condolence Blvd., Plant City, FL 33563. away on May 29, Wells MeMorial & event Center Funeral services will follow at HopewellFuneral.com. 2022 after a short Angelo L. PlanT CiTy 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com at 2 p.m. battle with cancer. Jackson Online condolences may She was born in be left for the family at 1947 in Circleville, Angelo L. Jackson, 66, of HOPEWELLFUNERAL.COM haught.care. Mulberry, Fla., passed away Ohio. She was preceded in death by her on Monday, June 6, 2022. Brenda Jean mother Bertha and her Angelo was born Jan. 25, W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community Ridenour 1956. we’re dedicated to helping families create a father Kenneth. She is unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM survived by her husband memories and exBrenda Jean Ridenour, celebrates the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, Fond > 100% Service Guarantee > National of Plan Transferability pressions sympathy may Larry of 47 years, two sons, 74 of Plant City passed > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® twin grandsons, 2 sisters, be shared at www.WellsMeaway June 9, 2022. Her John A. Orth R for the Jackson and 4 brothers. A memomorial.com family will be having private supporting family. the Plant City Strawberry Festival. rial service will take place services. John A. Orth, 70,Proudly of Plant later this summer. In lieu Online condolences may City, Fla., passed away on of flowers donations may be left for the family at Sunday, June 5, 2022. John we’re dedicated to helping families create a W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community be made to the United haught.care was 1952. uniqueFeb.1, and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. born the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, WELLSMEMORIAL.COM Methodist Florida ChildFondcelebrates memories and > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability rens’ Home in Enterprise, expressions of sympathy > The Compassion Helpline® > Bereavement Travel Assistance Wells MeMorial & event Center Fla., Life Path Hospice, may be shared at www. Mary I. Howe PlanT CiTy HAUGHTFUNERALHOME.COM R or The American Cancer WellsMemorial.com for the 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com Proudly supporting the Plant City Strawberry Festival. Society. Orth family. Mary I. Howe, 77, of LakeFrieda Causey land, Fla., passed away at home on Tuesday, Frieda Causey, age 92, une 7, 2022. Mary was of Plant City, Fla., passed WELLSMEMORIAL.COM dedicated helping families create a W E ’ R E P R O U D TO S E RV E our community born onwe’re Nov. 24,to 1944. away on May 30, 2022. The unique and meaningful memorial that truly with personal, compassionate care since 1896. the life it represents. As your Dignity Memorial professionals, Fondcelebrates memories and family will receive friends Carl E. Harris Wells MeMorial & event Center > 100% Service Guarantee > National Plan Transferability ALL OBITUARIES ARE PlanT CiTy expressions of sympathy June 17, 2022 from 10 to > Bereavement Travel Assistance > The Compassion Helpline® 813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com SUBMITTED AND 11 a.m. at Haught Funeral Carl E. Harris, 86, of Plant may be shared at www. R EDITED BY FAMILIES WellsMemorial.com for the Home 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. City, Fla., passed away on Proudly supportingHowe the Plantfamily. City Strawberry Festival. OR FUNERAL HOMES Blvd. Plant City, FL 33563. Monday, June A Memorial Service will fol6, 2022. Carl was born low at 11 a.m. Dec. 28, 1935. Online condolences may Fond memories and WELLSMEMORIAL.COM be left for the family at expressions of www.haught.care

Taking care of each other is what

community

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OBITUARIES

Fred L. Woodall

is all about.

Taking care of each other is what

community

is all about.

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Terri Lynn Kirkland Terri Lynn Kirkland, 49, of Plant City, Fla., born in Baton Rouge, La. on July 11, 1972, entered into eternal rest on June 11, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

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Michael Adrian Sutton Michael Adrian Sutton, 55, formerly of Atmore, Ala., born in Mobile, Ala. on May 10, 1967, entered into eternal rest on June 11, 2022. Expressions of condolence at HopewellFuneral. com.

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Taking care of each other is what

community

is all about.

M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

10/27/15 10:42 AM

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10/27/15 10:42 AM

Wells MeMorial & event Center PlanT CiTy

813-752-1111 WellsMemorial.com

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Geraldine Campbell Geraldine Campbell, 98, of Lakeland, Fla., passed

M2313_4832_Wells_PNT_Comm_7-25x9-75_C.indd 1

10/27/15 10:42 AM

116 North Collins Street Plant City, FL 33563 ph: (813) 567-5735 allabloomtampa.com

YOUR CALENDAR

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THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

BEST BET SATURDAY, JUNE 18 STRAWBERRY CLASSIC CRUISE-IN 3 to 6:30 at 102 N. Palmer St. The Plant City Classic Cruise-In is back on Saturday, June 18, rain or shine. Cars and trucks manufactured in or before 1996 can register for free starting at 3 p.m. Live music will be provided by DJ John Paul Gasca.

monthly on the first and third Tuesday of the month and is limited to two members from each business category. Admission is free for all Chamber members. If you are interested in joining Connect & Grow, contact Jerilyn Rumbarger at 813-754-3707 ext 102 to check for openings.

Rally SATURDAY, JUNE 18 SICKHOT LIVE 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. SickHot is a loud and electric band that’s tearing up stages all across central Florida and you’ll have the chance to see them live at Krazy Kup later this month. Formed in 2017 by Nik Wilson, Cory Bernardi and Chris Erickson, adding Brandon Chacon in 2019, their style boasts a blend of Aerosmith’s swagger with the power and energy of Led Zeppelin. The band has found notoriety on the Tampa Bay concert circuit, being featured at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa Sessions, USF’s Bullstock, the Florida Strawberry Festival and more. TUESDAY, JUNE 21 CONNECT & GROW 8 to 9 a.m. at 1601 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Connect & Grow provides opportunities for Greater Plant City Chamber members to connect with other businesses and business leaders within the community. If you attend, be ready to share best business practices, build business relationships and generate referrals. This group meets bi-

WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS WITH ESTRANGED FAMILIES 6:30 to 8 p.m. at GracePoint Church, 1107 Charlie Griffin Rd. Join other parents who are estranged from their adult children. PEAK (Parents of Estranged Adult Kids) group provides a safe place to listen, share and support others going through the hurt of adult family abandonment. Meetings will include group discussions, self-care and positively-influenced activities to help cope with the situation. Meetings are held the first Wednesday of each month. For more information, visit www.peaksupportgroup.com. WEDNESDAY, JULY 13

FRIDAY, JUNE 24 LAST FRIDAY IN DOWNTOWN 5 to 9 p.m. at McCall Park, 100 N. Collins St. The Last Friday in Downtown Food Truck Rally is held with a new theme each month. There will be live music, market vendors and food trucks. The event is family and pet friendly and all are recommended to bring chairs and blankets. This month’s theme will be Sweet on Summer. SATURDAY, JULY 2 BLUEGRASS JAM! 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd. This is an open invitation for local Bluegrass musicians and fans to come to the Krazy Kup loft and jam, clap hands, stomp feet and enjoy! Krazy Kup holds their Bluegrass JAM on the first Saturday of every month.

GARDEN CLUB CLASSES 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 303 N. Every St. The Plant City Garden Club will be holding a series of six Floral Design Classes at First United Methodist Church this summer, beginning on Wednesday, July 13 and running through Wednesday, August 17. The classes will be instructed by Flower Show Judges and are open to the public. Materials will be provided for the first three classes, with those in attendance needing to bring their own supplies to the final

three classes. Additionally, the Garden Club encourages all to bring scissors and lunch to each class. While the classes are open to the public, registration is required and will cost $25 per individual class or $100 for all six classes. For more information or to obtain a registration form for the classes, please contact Jan Griffin by phone at 813-716-6691 or by email at billjangriffin@gmail.com.

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FORECAST

Send your photo submissions to staff writer Taylor Jenkins at tjenkins@plantcityobserver.com or hashtag #iloveplantcity on Instagram for @igersplantcity to feature.

THURSDAY, JUNE 16 High: 96 Low: 75 Chance of rain: 24%

FRIDAY, JUNE 17 High: 96 Low: 75 Chance of rain: 15%

SUNRISE/SUNSET Sunrise Sunset Thursday, June 16

6:31a

8:26p

Friday, June 17

6:31a

8:26p

Saturday, June 18

6:31a

8:27p

Sunday, June 19

6:31a

8:27p

Monday, June 20

6:32a

8:27p

Tuesday, June 21

6:32a

8:27p

Wednesday, June 15

6:32a

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MOON PHASES

SATURDAY, JUNE 18 High: 96 Low: 76 Chance of rain: 58%

SUNDAY, JUNE 19 High: 92 Low: 74 Chance of rain: 54%

MONDAY, JUNE 20 Laurie Yoho captured this stunning view of the sunflower field at Berry Sweet Acres’ upick farm in Dover.

ONLINE

High: 90 Low: 73 Chance of rain: 43%

Across 1 Some artists’ quarters 6 Come to a halt 10 About, on a memo 14 All-__: versatile machine 15 Bizet’s “Habanera,” for one 16 Handle roughly 17 Holiday bloom 19 Sketchbooks 20 USO show audience 21 All lathered up 22 Magical lamp dweller 23 Jong and Durance 25 Oscar winner Kingsley 26 Taft’s University of Cincinnati position 33 Things sometimes

found under a tree 35 Wolf cries 36 1959 folk hit with the line “Charlie couldn’t get off of that train” 37 Burden 38 Gave out cards 39 Animal house 40 Time of your life 41 Prolonged battle 42 Number that’s part of a nap 43 UPS vehicle 46 __ Plaines 47 Familiarize 50 Rice or wheat 53 “Dilbert” creator Adams 56 Day for voting: Abbr.

57 Sleek, in car talk 58 Parlor pieces, and a hint to each set of circles 60 Dryer trap target 61 MLB Tiger, for one 62 Artist Max 63 Grandson of Adam 64 Heap affection (on) 65 Continues intensely, as a storm Down 1 Feudal lord 2 Broadcasting 3 Natural gas, coal, etc. 4 Atlanta-based station 5 Goes up and down 6 Pamplona parlor

7 Vacation choice 8 Like a slippery garage floor 9 Remit 10 Be about to happen 11 Palindromic bread 12 Designer Gernreich 13 “What __ can I do?” 18 Singer Diana 22 Hair products 24 Lions and tigers 25 Lightning flash 27 Support the team 28 Composer Carmichael 29 Young hooter 30 Online advertising 31 Arguing 32 __ a one: none 33 Prod 34 “Bus Stop” playwright 38 Fizzles out 39 Centers of activity 41 Norse name similar to Stephen 42 To a greater degree 44 Numbskulls 45 Campus cadets’ org. 48 Care for 49 Exams 50 __-force winds 51 Equestrian’s strap 52 River of Pisa 53 Farm storage unit 54 Tech news site 55 Shrek, e.g. 58 Bundle of cash 59 Altar in the sky

June 28 New

July 6 First

June 13 Full

June 20 Last

RAINFALL LAST WEEK:

MONTH TO DATE:

3.57in.

5.54 in.

YEAR TO DATE:

JUNE AVERAGE:

22.12 in.

9.71 in.

BLUEBERRIES Shipping point: Central & North Florida $14.00-$26.00 Source: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture

WEATHER

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THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 2022

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